Azmoun, Qayedi shortlisted for UAE league’s Player of the Season
Iranian international strikers Sardar Azmoun and Mahdi Qayedi have been named in the 10-man shortlist for the Emirati ADNOC Pro League Player of the Season.
The 2024-25 UAE Pro League season concluded with Shabab Al Ahli securing a dominant title victory, while Sharjah and Al Wahda claimed second and third place, respectively, earning spots in the AFC Champions League Elite. Al Wasl secured a place in the AFC Champions League Two, while Dibba Al Hisn and Al Urooba were relegated. As the league prepares for the new season, the UAE football association is set to announce the best performers of the past campaign.
Iranian duo among contenders
Ten players have been shortlisted for the Player of the Season award, with two Iranians making the list: Qayedi, the former Ittihad Kalba winger now with Al Nasr, and Azmoun, Shabab Al Ahli’s striker. They will compete against Federico Cartabia (Shabab Al Ahli), Kodjo Laba (Al Ain), Omar Khribin (Al Wahda), Firas Ben Larbi (Sharjah), Nabil Fekir (Al Jazira), Fabio Lima (Al Wasl), Alejandro Romero (Al Ain), and Caio Lucas (Sharjah).
Second most influential player
Qayedi enjoyed his best season yet, finishing as Kalba’s standout player with 16 goals and seven assists, directly contributing to 24 goals — the second-highest in the league, just behind Laba. The Iranian international was also the third-highest scorer and fourth-best assist provider, earning a move to Al Nasr Dubai. His presence in both the top scorers and assist charts strengthens his case for the award.
Key figure for champions
Azmoun, who left European football to join Shabab Al Ahli last season, scored 11 goals and provided six assists in the league. Despite his contributions, his penalty misses prevented a higher tally. His teammate Cartabia is also nominated but had fewer goal contributions, slightly improving Azmoun’s chances. However, given the competition, Azmoun remains an outside contender for the award.
The winner will be announced ahead of the new season, with Qayedi emerging as a strong favorite.